APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (06/01/2025)

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, staying updated with current affairs is vital. This blog covers most important topics from the Assam Tribune today (06-01-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1.  Assam Police: 2025 Targets and Priorities

GS Paper 3: Internal Security and Governance

Introduction:

The Assam Police has set ambitious targets for 2025 to enhance law and order, improve conviction rates, and address major security challenges. DGP GP Singh emphasized specific objectives like tackling drugs, rhino poaching, and cybercrime, while focusing on public respect and trust in policing.

Key Points:

1. Law Enforcement Goals:
   • Increase chargesheet filing rate to 75%.
   • Improve conviction rates to 30%.
2. Crime Prevention and Management:
   • Enhanced focus on cybercrime awareness and enforcement.
   • Maintain vigilance to prevent the rise of insurgent groups.
   • Strengthen operations against cross-border terrorist threats like Ansar Bangla Team (ABT).
3. Safety and Security:
   • Continued reduction of road accident fatalities through joint initiatives with transport and excise departments.
   • Intensify anti-drug trafficking efforts using NDPS Act provisions.
   • Sustain anti-rhino poaching and anti-cattle smuggling measures.
4. Human Resources and Community Policing:
   • Promote mutual respect among police personnel and citizens.
   • Minimize public complaints against the police force.

Prelims Pointers:

• Ansar Bangla Team (ABT): A Bangladesh-based terrorist group posing threats in Assam.
• NDPS Act: Legal framework for addressing drug-related crimes.
• Cybercrime Awareness: Educational programs to mitigate cyber fraud.

Mains Pointers:

1. Challenges in Policing:
   • Managing cyber threats with limited resources.
   • Ensuring success in drug-related investigations.
   • Maintaining long-term peace in insurgency-prone regions.
2. Significance of Priorities:
   • Improved conviction rates enhance the criminal justice system.
   • Community participation fosters trust and reduces grievances.
3. Way Forward:
   • Leverage technology for crime detection and prevention.
   • Conduct continuous training for police on emerging challenges like cybercrime.
   • Enhance coordination with central agencies for counter-terrorism.

Conclusion:

The Assam Police’s 2025 priorities reflect its commitment to fostering a secure and accountable law enforcement framework. Achieving these goals will depend on sustained efforts in capacity building, technology integration, and public engagement.

2. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Its Impact in Northeast India

GS Paper 3: Economy, Agriculture, and Rural Development

Introduction
The Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying inaugurated key projects under PMMSY worth ₹50 crore in Guwahati. These projects aim to enhance fisheries and aquaculture development in the Northeast region, a critical area for biodiversity and livelihoods.

Key Points

1. Overview of PMMSY in Northeast:
   • ₹50 crore allocated for sustainable fisheries development.
   • Organic Fisheries Cluster launched in Soreng, Sikkim.
   • Focus on aquaculture productivity and sustainable practices.
2. Support for Fisheries Beneficiaries:
   • Distribution of Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) to fish farmers.
   • Awards to Fisheries Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) and startups.
3. Regional Significance:
   • Northeast is a biodiversity hotspot for fish species.
   • Enhanced infrastructure and market linkages aim to boost fish production and exports.
4. Technical Session Highlights:
   • Focused on resource management, climate change impact, and infrastructure limitations in the region.
   • Practical strategies for growth presented by ICAR experts.

Prelims Pointers

• PMMSY Objective: To double fish production and exports by 2024-25.
• Kisan Credit Card: Credit support for fish farmers.
• Organic Fisheries Cluster: A sustainable aquaculture initiative.

Mains Pointers
Importance of PMMSY for the Northeast:

1. Economic Growth:
   • Boosts income for fish farmers through better market access and credit facilities.
   • Strengthens the regional economy with export potential.
2. Environmental Sustainability:
   • Promotes organic aquaculture, reducing the ecological footprint.
   • Conserves aquatic biodiversity unique to the Northeast.
3. Social Impact:
   • Creates employment opportunities in rural and tribal areas.
   • Supports marginalized fishing communities.

Challenges:

1. Infrastructure Deficit:
   • Limited cold chain facilities and processing units.
2. Climate Change:
   • Altered rainfall patterns affecting fish habitats.
3. Market Access:
   • Poor connectivity hinders fish transportation and export.

Way Forward:

1. Focus on Infrastructure: Establish cold chains, processing units, and modern hatcheries.
2. Awareness Campaigns: Educate farmers on organic aquaculture and financial literacy.
3. Collaboration with Research Institutions: Develop climate-resilient aquaculture models.
4. Expand Export Markets: Partner with international buyers for premium organic fish exports.

Conclusion
PMMSY is a transformative initiative for Northeast India, focusing on ecological sustainability and economic prosperity. By addressing infrastructure gaps and leveraging the region’s biodiversity, the program can ensure long-term benefits for the fisheries sector.

3. Rising Air Pollution in Northeast India

GS Paper 3: Environment, Pollution, and Public Health

Introduction
The Northeast, known for its pristine environment, is now grappling with worsening air quality, particularly in urban centers like Guwahati and Byrnihat. Poorly implemented infrastructure projects and unchecked industrial emissions have emerged as significant contributors.

Key Points

1. Current Air Quality Status:
   • Guwahati and Byrnihat recorded “very poor” air quality levels in January 2025.
   • PM2.5, a hazardous particulate matter, is the primary pollutant.
2. Major Pollutants and Sources:
   • Dust Pollution: Caused by unregulated construction activities in Guwahati.
   • Industrial Emissions: Byrnihat’s ferroalloy and cement industries are major culprits.
   • Vehicular Emissions: Increased urbanization has led to higher traffic-related pollution.
3. Health Implications:
   • Rise in respiratory ailments, especially among vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.
   • Long-term exposure risks include cardiovascular diseases and reduced lung function.
4. Government Action:
   • Meghalaya Pollution Control Board issued closure notices to six ferroalloy units in Byrnihat for non-compliance with environmental standards.

Prelims Pointers

• PM2.5: Fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, capable of penetrating deep into the lungs.
• Ambient Air Quality Standards: Guidelines set by CPCB to monitor and control air pollution levels.
• Byrnihat: Known as India’s most polluted area in 2023 due to industrial emissions.

Mains Pointers
Importance of Addressing Air Pollution in the Northeast:

1. Environmental Preservation:
   • The region’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty are under threat.
   • Pollution impacts water bodies, forests, and agricultural productivity.
2. Public Health:
   • Increasing cases of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory diseases.
   • Children and elderly are the most affected by poor air quality.
3. Economic Impact:
   • Reduced productivity due to health issues.
   • Decreased tourism potential of the Northeast.

Challenges:

1. Lack of Stringent Regulations:
   • Poor enforcement of construction and industrial pollution norms.
2. Urbanization:
   • Rapid growth without adequate planning worsens pollution levels.
3. Inadequate Monitoring:
   • Limited air quality monitoring stations in the region.

Government Initiatives and Suggestions:

1. Pollution Control Measures:
   • Strengthen penalties for industries violating emission norms.
   • Mandate dust control measures in construction projects.
2. Improved Infrastructure:
   • Set up air monitoring stations in all urban centers of the Northeast.
   • Invest in public transportation to reduce vehicular emissions.
3. Public Awareness Campaigns:
   • Educate citizens on the dangers of air pollution and encourage eco-friendly practices.
4. Green Initiatives:
   • Promote afforestation and green belts around urban areas.
   • Incentivize the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources.

Conclusion
Air pollution is an emerging crisis for the Northeast, demanding immediate attention to safeguard public health and the environment. Through stricter enforcement, innovative policies, and collaborative efforts, the region can reclaim its reputation as an ecological haven.

4. Advantage Assam 2.0: A Push for Investment and Economic Transformation

GS Paper 3: Economy, Infrastructure Development

Introduction
The Assam government has launched its “Advantage Assam 2.0” roadshow in Mumbai, inviting investors to participate in a business conclave scheduled for February 25-26, 2025. The initiative aims to position Assam as a premier investment destination and a key contributor to India’s economic growth.

Key Points

1. Focus Areas of Advantage Assam 2.0:
   • Promoting investment in key sectors: aerospace, renewable energy, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and defence manufacturing.
   • Highlighting Assam’s pro-investment policies and strategic geographic location.
2. Mumbai Roadshow Highlights:
   • Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met with industry leaders from Mahindra, Tata, Adani, and Hindustan Unilever.
   • Showcased Assam’s remarkable GSDP growth and robust infrastructure.
3. Upcoming Global Roadshows:
   • Planned roadshows in UAE, UK, South Korea, and Japan to attract foreign direct investment (FDI).
4. Business Environment in Assam:
   • Reduction in bureaucratic hurdles to create a conducive ecosystem for industries.
   • Strengthened connectivity through enhanced road and rail infrastructure.

Prelims Pointers

• Advantage Assam 2.0: An initiative to attract investments through global outreach.
• Strategic Location: Assam acts as a gateway to Southeast Asia under India’s Act East Policy.
• Target Sectors: Aerospace, pharmaceuticals, defence manufacturing, and renewable energy.

Mains Pointers
Significance of Advantage Assam 2.0:

1. Economic Transformation:
   • Drives GSDP growth and positions Assam as an industrial hub.
   • Enhances the state’s contribution to India’s overall economic development.
2. Employment Generation:
   • Creates job opportunities across sectors like manufacturing, IT, and renewable energy.
   • Promotes skill development among the youth.
3. Boosting Infrastructure:
   • Encourages investment in transport, logistics, and industrial corridors.
   • Strengthens Assam’s role in regional trade and connectivity.
4. Global Outreach:
   • Positions Assam as an investment hotspot in the global market.
   • Promotes partnerships with multinational corporations.

Challenges:

1. Infrastructure Bottlenecks:
   • Inadequate industrial infrastructure and logistical inefficiencies.
2. Competition from Other States:
   • Assam must compete with states like Gujarat and Maharashtra for investments.
3. Regulatory Delays:
   • Procedural inefficiencies may deter investors.

Government Initiatives and Suggestions:

1. Ease of Doing Business:
   • Streamline approval processes through single-window clearance systems.
   • Ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
2. Focus on Connectivity:
   • Accelerate the development of highways, railways, and waterways.
   • Strengthen ties with Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy.
3. Incentives for Investors:
   • Offer tax benefits and subsidies to attract industries.
   • Promote public-private partnerships for infrastructure projects.
4. Skill Development:
   • Establish training centers to equip the workforce with industry-specific skills.

Conclusion
Advantage Assam 2.0 underscores the state’s commitment to fostering economic growth through sustainable and inclusive development. By addressing infrastructure gaps and creating a business-friendly environment, Assam can emerge as a leading investment destination, boosting its role in India’s growth story.

5. Women-Led Startups in India: A Rising Force

GS Paper 3: Economy and Women Empowerment

Introduction
India’s startup ecosystem witnessed remarkable progress in 2024, with a 90% increase in funding for women-led startups. The shift signals a growing emphasis on gender inclusivity and entrepreneurial innovation, aligning with national economic and social empowerment goals.

Key Points

1. Funding Growth:
   • Women-led startups raised $930 million across 136 deals in 2024, compared to $480 million in 2023.
   • Increased investor confidence in women entrepreneurs.
2. Sectoral Presence:
   • Significant ventures in health-tech, ed-tech, e-commerce, and agri-tech.
   • Enhanced representation in traditionally male-dominated industries like fintech and logistics.
3. Geographical Diversity:
   • Startups from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities contributed significantly to the funding spike.
4. Supportive Ecosystem:
   • Role of policies like Startup India, women-specific funding schemes, and mentorship initiatives.

Prelims Pointers

• Startup India Initiative: Government program to foster entrepreneurship through financial and mentorship support.
• Inc42 Report 2024: Highlights trends and data on women-led startup funding.
• Key Growth Drivers: Policies, investor confidence, and rising entrepreneurial aspirations.

Mains Pointers
Significance of Women-Led Startups:

1. Economic Contribution:
   • Boosts GDP and diversifies economic activity.
   • Enhances innovation through diverse perspectives.
2. Social Empowerment:
   • Promotes gender equality in business leadership.
   • Creates job opportunities for women, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
3. Global Competitiveness:
   • Aligns with India’s goal to become a $5 trillion economy.
   • Strengthens India’s position in global entrepreneurship rankings.

Challenges:

1. Funding Bias:
   • Women entrepreneurs face difficulties in accessing venture capital compared to male counterparts.
2. Cultural Barriers:
   • Persistent stereotypes and limited societal support hinder women’s participation.
3. Skill Gaps:
   • Lack of access to advanced training and business mentorship for aspiring women entrepreneurs.

Government Initiatives:

1. Stand-Up India Scheme: Financial aid for women and SC/ST entrepreneurs.
2. Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP): NITI Aayog-led platform providing mentorship and networking opportunities.
3. National Skill Development Mission: Training programs tailored for women entrepreneurs.

Way Forward:

1. Encourage Private Investment:
   • Offer tax benefits to funds supporting women-led startups.
2. Strengthen Mentorship Networks:
   • Collaborate with experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders.
3. Focus on Digital Inclusion:
   • Promote e-commerce and digital literacy among women entrepreneurs.
4. Expand Regional Outreach:
   • Prioritize support for startups in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to reduce urban concentration.

Conclusion
The rise in funding for women-led startups reflects India’s progress toward gender-inclusive economic development. By addressing structural barriers and enhancing support mechanisms, women entrepreneurs can further catalyze innovation and sustainable growth in the nation’s startup ecosystem.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. Assam Police: 2025 Targets and Priorities

Question 1:
Which of the following measures is a priority for the Assam Police in 2025?

1. Increasing conviction rates.
2. Enhancing cybercrime awareness and enforcement.
3. Establishing new insurgent groups.
4. Addressing cross-border terrorism threats.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only
• (b) 1, 2, and 4 only
• (c) 2, 3, and 4 only
• (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (b)

Explanation:
The Assam Police’s 2025 priorities include improving conviction rates, tackling cybercrime, and countering cross-border terrorism (like Ansar Bangla Team). Establishing insurgent groups is contradictory to their goal of preventing insurgency.

---

Question 2:
Ansar Bangla Team (ABT), often in the news, is:

• (a) A group promoting regional development initiatives in Bangladesh.
• (b) A terrorist organization posing a cross-border threat to Assam.
• (c) A UN-recognized peacebuilding NGO.
• (d) An international cybercrime task force.

Answer: (b)

Explanation:
Ansar Bangla Team is a terrorist group based in Bangladesh, linked to cross-border security concerns in Assam.

---

2. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

Question 3:
Which of the following is NOT a component of PMMSY?

• (a) Organic Fisheries Clusters
• (b) Distribution of Kisan Credit Cards
• (c) Doubling fish production by 2024-25
• (d) Crop insurance for millet farmers

Answer: (d)

Explanation:
PMMSY focuses on fisheries development, including organic aquaculture and credit support for fish farmers. Crop insurance for millet farmers is unrelated to this scheme.

---

Question 4:
The PMMSY scheme aligns with which of the following objectives?

1. Promoting sustainable aquaculture.
2. Doubling fish exports.
3. Establishing cold chain facilities for fish storage.
4. Increasing millet exports from India.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

• (a) 1 and 3 only
• (b) 2, 3, and 4 only
• (c) 1, 2, and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (c)

Explanation:
PMMSY focuses on fish production, export enhancement, and infrastructure development, such as cold chains. Millet exports are not relevant to this scheme.

---

3. Rising Air Pollution in Northeast India

Question 5:
What does PM2.5, often cited in air quality reports, refer to?

• (a) Fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less.
• (b) A gaseous pollutant contributing to smog formation.
• (c) Carbon emissions from industrial processes.
• (d) A monitoring standard set by the CPCB.

Answer: (a)

Explanation:
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter small enough to penetrate human lungs, posing serious health risks.

---

Question 6:
Which region in Northeast India was labeled the most polluted area in 2023 due to industrial emissions?

• (a) Guwahati
• (b) Shillong
• (c) Byrnihat
• (d) Tezpur

Answer: (c)

Explanation:
Byrnihat, known for its ferroalloy and cement industries, recorded severe pollution levels in 2023 due to unchecked emissions.

---

4. Advantage Assam 2.0

Question 7:
What is the primary objective of the Advantage Assam 2.0 initiative?

• (a) Promote Assamese culture globally.
• (b) Attract investments and boost industrial growth.
• (c) Develop new public transportation networks.
• (d) Establish special economic zones in Southeast Asia.

Answer: (b)

Explanation:
Advantage Assam 2.0 is an investment-centric initiative designed to drive industrial growth and position Assam as a business hub.

---

Question 8:
Which of the following sectors is NOT a target for investment under Advantage Assam 2.0?

• (a) Defence manufacturing
• (b) Renewable energy
• (c) Pharmaceuticals
• (d) Fisheries

Answer: (d)

Explanation:
While Advantage Assam 2.0 focuses on sectors like defence, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals, fisheries development is addressed under PMMSY.

---

Question 9:
The Act East Policy significantly supports Assam’s development under Advantage Assam 2.0. This policy aims to:

• (a) Promote Assam’s cultural exports to Europe.
• (b) Strengthen India’s economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia.
• (c) Facilitate Assam’s trade with Western India.
• (d) Establish renewable energy hubs in the Northeast.

Answer: (b)

Explanation:
The Act East Policy enhances India’s connectivity with Southeast Asia, benefiting Assam’s trade and strategic interests.

---

5. Women-Led Startups in India

Question 10:
Which initiative specifically supports women entrepreneurs in India?

• (a) Atal Innovation Mission
• (b) Stand-Up India Scheme
• (c) Kisan Credit Card Scheme
• (d) Skill India Initiative

Answer: (b)

Explanation:
The Stand-Up India Scheme provides financial aid to women and SC/ST entrepreneurs to foster inclusivity in business.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Discuss the priorities set by the Assam Police for 2025 and analyze how they can contribute to improving internal security and public trust. Highlight the challenges in implementation and suggest measures to address them.

---

Model Answer

Introduction
The Assam Police, under its 2025 strategy, has set ambitious goals to strengthen law and order, enhance conviction rates, and tackle emerging security threats. Key areas include combating drug trafficking, curbing cybercrime, and addressing cross-border terrorism while building public trust and minimizing grievances against the police force.

---

Key Priorities of Assam Police for 2025

1. Enhancing Law Enforcement Efficiency:
   • Targeting a 75% charge-sheet filing rate.
   • Improving conviction rates to 30% to ensure accountability in the criminal justice system.
2. Tackling Security Threats:
   • Focus on countering cross-border terrorism, including threats from groups like Ansar Bangla Team (ABT).
   • Preventing the resurgence of insurgent groups in the region.
3. Addressing Modern Crimes:
   • Cybercrime awareness and enforcement campaigns to mitigate digital fraud and online threats.
   • Strengthening anti-drug trafficking efforts through the NDPS Act.
4. Community-Oriented Policing:
   • Promoting mutual respect between citizens and police personnel.
   • Reducing public complaints against the force by improving responsiveness and transparency.

---

Significance of These Priorities

1. Improved Internal Security:
   • Enhanced focus on cross-border terrorism and insurgent threats contributes to long-term peace and stability in Assam.
   • Tackling drug trafficking curtails organized crime and associated social issues.
2. Strengthening Public Trust:
   • Community policing and faster crime resolution improve the perception of the police force.
   • Lowering public grievances fosters a collaborative environment between law enforcement and citizens.
3. Modernizing Crime Prevention:
   • Cybercrime enforcement aligns Assam with emerging challenges in digital security.
   • Advanced anti-terrorism and drug enforcement mechanisms protect youth and vulnerable populations.

---

Challenges in Implementation

1. Resource Constraints:
   • Insufficient manpower and infrastructure hinder achieving targets like enhanced conviction rates.
   • Limited technological capacity to handle advanced cybercrime cases.
2. Public Perception Issues:
   • Historical mistrust in law enforcement due to allegations of corruption or misuse of power.
3. Coordination with Central Agencies:
   • Counter-terrorism and cross-border threats require seamless collaboration, which can face bureaucratic delays.
4. Cultural and Social Barriers:
   • Low awareness about cybercrime and drug-related issues in rural areas.

---

Way Forward

1. Leverage Technology:
   • Use AI-driven tools and data analytics for crime prevention and investigation.
   • Equip police with cybercrime labs and training in digital forensics.
2. Capacity Building:
   • Recruit and train personnel in specialized areas like counter-terrorism and cyber law enforcement.
   • Enhance infrastructure for drug de-addiction centers and anti-drug operations.
3. Public Awareness Campaigns:
   • Educate citizens about cybercrime, drug abuse, and community cooperation through local programs.
   • Use social media platforms for real-time communication with the public.
4. Improved Coordination:
   • Strengthen partnerships with central agencies like the NIA for counter-terrorism.
   • Collaborate with NGOs for community-oriented policing and grievance redressal.

---

Conclusion
The Assam Police’s 2025 priorities are a holistic approach to modernizing internal security and fostering public trust. By addressing challenges through technology, capacity building, and community engagement, the force can not only strengthen law enforcement but also contribute to Assam’s overall social and economic development.al. With sustainable practices and inclusive planning, the initiative can achieve its objectives of promoting Assam’s heritage globally.

✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
at most affordable rate in Assam!

🔔 Join Our WhatsApp Study Group!

For exclusive access to premium quality content, including study materials, current affairs, MCQs, and model answers for APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exams.

Click here to join: SuchitraACS Study WhatsApp Group

📚 Want to know more about SuchitraACS’s most affordable courses?

Click here to know more: SuchitraACS Courses for APSC CCE and Assam Competitive Examinations